What to expect in San Francisco in May
May is a strong choice for San Francisco: 18° / 11°, with manageable crowds at the big attractions and prices close to the yearly average.
San Francisco weather in May
Typical conditions in San Francisco during May, based on long-run climate normals rather than any single year. Treat it as a planning guide, not a forecast.
| Average high | 18°C 64°F |
|---|---|
| Average low | 11°C 52°F |
| Rainfall | Dry 15/100 |
| Total rainfall | 18 mm0.7 in |
| Rainy days | 4 |
| Sea temperature | 12°C 53°F |
| Daylight | 14 h 13 min |
| How it feels | Mild — layers weather |
Average highs sit around 18°C with lows near 11°C. It is one of the drier months — pack light.
Crowds & demand
Crowd levels are Moderate for San Francisco — manageable crowds at the big attractions.
Prices & value
This month counts as shoulder season: prices close to the yearly average.
What to pack
Layers you can shed: 18°C by day and about 11°C after dark is a two-jacket kind of month. Rain gear is largely optional this month, which keeps your bag light.
What it costs
Costs in May sit around the yearly average for San Francisco — neither a bargain nor a squeeze. Booking a few weeks out is usually enough. Compared with the most expensive month of the year, you are looking at roughly 15% less.
Who this month suits
- Travellers who want the most reliable weather
- Anyone travelling on a budget
- Visitors who want to catch a festival
Events & what’s on
Look out for Bay to Breakers while you’re there.
- Bay to Breakers — Costumed runners race 12 kilometers across the city in a raucous street party.
San Francisco in May compared with nearby months
If your dates are flexible by a few weeks, this is what shifting them actually buys you.
| Month | Temp | Crowds | Price | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March | 16° / 9° | Low | $$ | 60 |
| April | 17° / 10° | Moderate | $$ | 60 |
| May · This month | 18° / 11° | Moderate | $$ | 59 |
| June | 19° / 12° | High | $$ | 58 |
| July | 19° / 12° | High | $$ | 54 |
These months score higher for San Francisco on the same blend of weather, crowds and price. Same destination, better odds.
Or go somewhere else in May
If the destination is negotiable but the month is not, these places are at their best in May.
Figures are climate normals and modelled estimates — a planning guide, not a forecast. We separate fact, estimate and recommendation. Updated October 2026
